Truck Stolen from Nanaimo Rail Yard Recovered in Parksville

UPDATE: A specialized truck modified to operate on train tracks has been recovered after being stolen from a rail yard in Nanaimo. The incident occurred just after 2:30 a.m. on September 29, 2023, and the vehicle was found the following day in Parksville.

According to Reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, spokesperson for the Nanaimo RCMP, the stolen Ford F250 pickup belonged to the Southern Railway of Vancouver Island, an operator partnered with the Island Corridor Foundation. The truck, equipped with railway wheels at both the front and rear, was taken from a location near Port Drive.

Police recovered the vehicle on Smithers Road in Parksville on September 30. Reports indicate the truck had a “punched ignition” when found, prompting authorities to tow it from the scene.

Surveillance footage captured a suspect, described as wearing a red hoodie and brown pants, forcing open a side door of the truck before driving away five minutes later. Witnesses also reported seeing two individuals leaving the area shortly after the theft.

Authorities are currently awaiting the results of a forensic examination of the vehicle to gather more information about the incident. The police urge anyone with additional details to come forward as they continue their investigation into this brazen theft.

This incident highlights the ongoing concerns about vehicle security in railway operations and the need for increased vigilance among railroad companies and law enforcement. The recovery of the truck is a relief for the Southern Railway of Vancouver Island, ensuring their operations can resume without further disruption.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.